A Virtual Machine (VM) is software used to run a different operating system (OS) on a single piece of hardware separately. In other words, a VM is a "virtual computer" that runs within an existing physical environment, such as a computer or server (known as the host). 

Typically, a computer or server has one operating system that controls everything. However, with a VM, it can run more than one operating system on the same computer. For example, Windows and Linux operating systems can function on the same computer, with each OS running separately and independently, as if they were different computers. 

VMs use special software called a hypervisor to manage and control the computer's resources, such as the processor, memory (RAM), and storage, ensuring that the operating systems in the VM function properly without interfering with the host machine. 

The main components of a Virtual Machine (VM) are: 

1. Hypervisor - The software that manages the VM. There are two types of hypervisors: the first runs directly on the computer's hardware without needing an OS (e.g., VMware ESXi, Microsoft Hyper-V), and the second runs on the host OS (e.g., VMware Workstation, Oracle VirtualBox).
2. Guest OS - The operating system that runs within the VM. This can be a different operating system from the host OS, such as Windows, Linux, or macOS.
3. Virtual Hardware - A VM uses virtual hardware provided by the hypervisor, including virtual CPU, memory (RAM), virtual storage, and other devices such as a network card.

Some uses of VMs include: 

1. Software Testing: Allows application developers to test software in different environments without the need for multiple physical computers.
2. Isolation and Security: VMs can be used to isolate sensitive applications or data, making them more secure.
3. IT Infrastructure Management: VMs help reduce costs by allowing multiple servers to run on a single physical machine.

In summary, VMs give us the freedom to run various operating systems and applications on a single computer without the need to purchase multiple physical devices.

Prepared by:
Ts. Mohd Mazlimin Omar
Bahagian Infrastruktur ICT

Date of Input: 28/02/2025 | Updated: 27/03/2025 | zuraya